Tips for Planning your Move

While moving is often one of the most stressful events in an individual’s life, the good news is that you can help to eliminate much of that stress with the right planning. Regardless of whether you are moving interstate or you are simply moving within the state where you live, there are many tips and guidelines you can follow to make the process easier.

One of the biggest mistakes many people make when moving is simply that they fail to plan sufficiently. Specifically they fail to plan far enough in advance. Moving is not a process that should be undertaken lightly or at the last minute. Of course, in some cases that cannot be avoided; however, whenever possible the process should b e embarked upon with sufficient advance planning. Be aware that when you wait to the last minute your options are limited and this can result in all kinds of problems. In particular, you may not be able to retain the services of the mover you really want or even the date you want to move. This can result in having to select a less than quality mover.

Ideally, you should begin making arrangements for your move at least four to six weeks before you actually plan to move. Make a list of everything that needs to be done and check items off as they are completed. This will help to keep you organized.

Also, when possible, try to avoid moving during the busiest time of the year; which is summer. Statistics have shown that most people try to move during this time of year because the kids are out of school. If you have a choice, it can be better to move at a different time of year. This allows you more of an opportunity to secure a good mover. In addition, prices tend to be lower during other times of the year.

Did you know that certain times of the month also tend to be busier? It’s true. More people prefer to move at the beginning of the month because rent and mortgage payments tend to begin at that time. Once again if you have any control over the matter, try to move in the middle of the month.

After you have chosen your mover, be sure to inform them early on of the date when you plan to move and the location. Always ask for a written estimate up front and be sure you know what is being covered in their services.

Plan to have your items packed at least two days before the van is going to arrive to be loaded. Ideally, it is best to have someone handle this professionally for you but even if you are going to handle the matter yourself keep in mind it is never too soon to get started. Make sure you have an inventory of all your items if you are hiring someone else to do it for you.

When the day of your move arrives make sure you are on site when the movers arrive. Take the time to discuss delivery arrangements thoroughly. Avoid waiting to the last minute for items such as having the beds stripped. This should be completed already. Go over all documents carefully before signing. Be sure you provide your mover with complete information on how to reach you as well as instructions on how to reach your destination. This is important because the mover must know how to contact you to schedule the actual delivery of your items at your destination. Remember that if they cannot reach you it may be necessary to store your items until you can be reached and they may result in additional charges.